BMW 8-Series to make a grand return next year

BMW is in the midst of reinventing its range-topping grand tourer in the form of an 8-Series revival. This new model is likely to replace the ageing 6-Series that BMW currently sells.

And it's not just rumours that fuel this idea – take a look at the size of the coupe in these images and you will notice it’s certainly large enough for the 8-Series badge. BMW’s new CLAR architecture, which debuted with the 2016 7-Series, will serve as a base for this upcoming grand tourer. And thanks to the intelligent material mix used by the platform, the open-air model shouldn't be that far from the coupe in terms of weight and torsional rigidity.

BMW has already trademarked multiple 8-Series-related nameplates, including the M8. If such a range-topper receives the green light, it will fulfil a dream that's as old as the original E31 itself (think 1989), as the Motorsport Division never got to touch the old 8, despite a prototype being built.